Commercial Acquisition Procedures – Simplifying Government Buying
Commercial acquisition procedures allow federal agencies to buy goods and services using more streamlined, commercial-style methods. These procedures prioritize efficiency, reduce administrative burden, and are designed to reflect how the private sector buys and sells—making them an important entry point for many small and mid-sized businesses in GovCon.
What Are Commercial Acquisition Procedures?
Defined in FAR Part 12, commercial acquisition procedures allow agencies to use simplified formats, contract types, and terms when acquiring commercial products and services. This includes firm-fixed-price contracts and the use of terms common in commercial markets.
Why These Procedures Matter
- Faster awards: Streamlined evaluation and less documentation
- Lower barriers: Easier entry for small businesses and new vendors
- Greater flexibility: Commercial terms that are more familiar to industry
When Are Commercial Procedures Used?
These procedures are used when an item or service is of a type customarily used by the general public and sold commercially. Agencies are encouraged to use them whenever possible to reduce acquisition lead time and improve efficiency. Contracting Officers must document market research and determine that the item qualifies as commercial.
How Skyway Helps Vendors Compete
Our team of former Contracting Officers helps companies navigate commercial item determinations, market research positioning, and proposal alignment under commercial procedures. We guide you on:
- Qualifying your product or service as commercial
- Responding to commercial solicitations with compliant proposals
- Understanding how FAR Parts 12, 13, and 15 intersect
Skyway’s Support Process
| Phase | Skyway Support | Your Benefit |
|---|---|---|
| Pre-Award | Market research & commercial item review | Position your offer to qualify for Part 12 |
| Proposal | Review for FAR Part 12 & price reasonableness | Avoid disqualification and speed up award |
| Post-Award | Support with mods and performance expectations | Stronger execution and agency trust |
Ready to Compete with Confidence?
Book a free consultation or explore Skyway Central to gain clarity on commercial acquisition procedures and strengthen your GovCon strategy.
